Strathcona County RCMP have laid charges in connection with three separate arsons in Sherwood Park last month, and are now seeking public assistance after the accused failed to appear in court.
The first incident occurred on March 21, 2025, at 8:29 p.m., when emergency crews responded to a shopping cart fire in a parking lot on Ordze Avenue. Four days later, on March 25 at 8:12 p.m., police were called to a dumpster fire on Sherwood Drive. In both cases, the suspect had fled the scene before officers arrived.
The third fire took place on March 28 at 5:09 p.m. on a bus bench at Main Boulevard. This time, officers were able to locate and arrest the suspect at the scene.
Following an investigation, 50-year-old Nelsena Lee Badarm, of no fixed address, was charged with three counts of arson. Badarm was released with conditions but failed to appear for a scheduled court date. A warrant has since been issued for her arrest.
RCMP are asking for the public’s help in locating Badarm, who is described as having a medium complexion, standing 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing approximately 141 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Strathcona County RCMP at 780-467-7741 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.P3Tips.com or through the P3 Tips mobile app.
No injuries were reported in any of the incidents. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fires.
